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Cast your cares

 

It’s so good to have some energy back. I’m fully back into my routine and we are visiting the family this weekend for a much needed break from the renovations—or lack of!

I have been reflecting on all the events happening currently. Global warming leading to severe weather events, devastating earthquakes, COVID-19 still very present in our communities, the wars in Gaza and Ukraine (not to speak of wars that have been going for many years in other places that we hear nothing about), sex-trafficking and modern day slavery to name a few. Then there is the general unrest and protests in our nation and indeed, in other nations; against the war in Gaza, supporting Israel; against abortion and for abortion; against LBGTQ community and for the LBGTQ community; for unity, against unifying tactics claiming racism; racism against all the various beautiful and rich cultures we have in our country. Then I start thinking about the intimidating tactics of gangs and how they get away with stealing because ordinary people simply are unable to stand up against them and the police also seem powerless. In other words I am reflecting on evil!

It can all seem a bit much, but I remind myself that God is Sovereign and all these things must come to pass but the end is not yet near (24:6-8). We are told not to be troubled so I absolutely believe that God’s got this! There is nothing He cannot handle. There are no surprises for God. We are given free will and God knew what that would mean but loves us too much not to allow us to make our own choices.

We are given other beautiful scriptures to help us have peace.

‘Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus’ (Philippians 4:6-7)

‘Cast all your anxiety on Him because He cares for you’ (1 Peter 5:7)

‘Even though I walk through the darkest valley, I will fear no evil, for you are with me; (Psalm 23:4)

‘… fear not for I am with you; be not dismayed, for I am your God; I will strengthen you, I will help you, I will uphold you with my righteous right hand’ (Isaiah 41:10)

How amazing is God. So I will not be troubled, but give Him all these things (and the renovations) and leave it all with Him—the one who loves us passionately and continues to change us and sanctify us for His glory. The one who gives peace!

May you have peace this day and always in our Lord Jesus Christ. Shalom.

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